This publication provides monthly estimates of stocks and use for wheat, and quarterly estimates for barley as well as selected other grains and pulses for selected manufacturing and agricultural businesses, licensed exporters and bulk grain handlers. These estimates are compiled from various surveys conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), including the Grain Handlers Stocks Survey, Wheat Use Survey, Wheat Export Sales Survey, and from administrative data relating to wheat grain exports. Estimates from the surveys are combined with export trade data to provide monthly estimates of the volume of wheat grain stored, used, or committed for use.

The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARE) uses these data to compile a monthly report on the Australian wheat industry.

The current scope and coverage of the collections is understood to account for the majority of Australia's grain stored, used and committed.

For more information on stocks of grain held by bulk grain handlers, including barley and selected other grains, see Stocks of Grain Held by Bulk Handling Companies and Grain Traders, Australia (cat. no 7122.0.55.001).

The ABS welcomes any comments from readers regarding the usefulness, range and quality of the statistics presented in this publication. Comments can be forwarded to: The Environment and Agriculture Business Statistics Centre, Australian Bureau of Statistics, GPO Box 66, Hobart TAS 7001. Alternatively, email <agriculture.statistics@abs.gov.au> or phone (03) 6222 5939.

CHANGES IN FORTHCOMING ISSUES

Currently, estimates of stocks and use of barley and selected other grains and pulses are reported on a quarterly basis in data cubes attached to the web version of this publication. As a result of an ongoing review of the various associated collections and changing data needs amongst key clients, collection of these data will cease.

The September 2010 edition of this publication will include data on stocks of barley and selected other grains and pulses only. Updated estimates of stocks of barley and selected other grains and pulses will be provided in the March 2011 edition of this publication. Data on use of barley and selected other grains and pulses will no longer be published. The publication of monthly data on wheat stocks, use and commitments will continue unchanged.